Can you eat sprouted potatoes?

Under normal circumstances, sprouted potatoes are not recommended for consumption. During the process of sprouting or turning green, potatoes produce a toxin called solanine, a naturally occurring glycoalkaloid with strong toxicity. Ingestion of solanine by humans may cause poisoning symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, symptoms may also include headache, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and even coma, which can lead to neurological dysfunction.

In their normal state, potatoes contain very low levels of solanine, which typically do not pose a health risk. However, once potatoes begin to sprout or turn green, the solanine content increases significantly, thereby increasing the risk of poisoning. To ensure food safety and health, it is recommended to avoid eating sprouted or green potatoes. If sprouting is observed, the potato should be discarded immediately and not consumed. Additionally, when purchasing and storing potatoes, one should select those with smooth, undamaged, and unsprouted skins, and store them in a cool, well-ventilated, and dry environment to delay sprouting.